This systematic review and meta-analysis assesses intervention efficacy and examines the characteristics and outcomes of retirement and late-life planning interventions for older adults.

We systematically searched Scopus, Web of Science, Academic Search Premier, and PsycInfo for studies published from 2010 to December 18, 2024. Experimental studies written in English-language were included. Random-effects single-arm meta-analyses were performed, calculating effect sizes in standardized mean differences (SMDs), mean differences (MDs), or odds ratios (ORs), as appropriate. We conducted subgroup analyses and meta-regressions to explore heterogeneity, and sensitivity analyses to test robustness. Study quality was assessed using established risk of bias and quality appraisal tools.

Of 5,455 records screened, 34 studies met the inclusion criteria, with 26 contributing data to the meta-analysis. Overall risk of bias was moderate to high, and evidence certainty ranged from low to moderate. Interventions yielded significant improvements in financial (SMD=0.68), physical (SMD=0.55) and overall health (SMD=0.74), and social planning (SMD=0.78), and positive retirement perception (SMD=0.13), overall goal perception (SMD=0.20), and life satisfaction (SMD=0.12). Positive effects were also observed in financial (OR=6.23), physical health (OR=14.73), social (OR=22.73), and family behaviours (OR=4.68), with reductions in anxiety (SMD=-0.18) and loneliness (SMD=-0.40).

Retirement and late-life planning interventions for ageing adults are effective in enhancing financial, health, and social planning, perceptions of retirement and goals, and psychological and behavioural outcomes. Future research should prioritize rigorous RCTs to refine intervention strategies, particularly in family and future care planning, and tailor approaches to diverse populations by considering age, gender, socioeconomic status, and cultural context.

Authors:
Youjuan Zhang, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, China
Manying Kang, Hong Kong Polytechnic University, China
Yang Chao, Hong Kong Polytechnic University, China
Xue Bai Hong Kong Polytechnic University, China

About the Presenter(s)
Dr. Youjuan ZHANG is currently a Research Assistant Professor in the Department of Applied Social Sciences and a Research Coordinator at the Research Centre of Gerontology and Family Studies at The Hong Kong Polytechnic University.

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